06/09/2009

15 minutes worth

It is well known that most health insurance companies encourage doctors to spend less than 15 minutes with each patient. Basically, the less time a doctor spends with a patient, the more patients the doctor can see in a day.

How to get your 15 minutes worth:

1. Be the first patient in the morning. If you see the doctor right after he has his cup o’ Joe, he’ll be more refreshed and less likely to be behind schedule.
2. Go on an off day. Want to be first in line for your yearly exam? Schedule it for the day after Thanksgiving or the day after Christmas. You’ll be in and out in a jiffy and you’ll save some money too.
3. Notes, notes, and more notes. Bring a detailed list of the questions you want to ask, and the concerns you want to talk about. Tell the doctor that you want to talk about several things before he leaves.
4. Send records ahead. It is really important to send medical records ahead, especially if you’re seeing a new doctor.
5. Don’t play truth or dare. Be honest with your doctor.
6. Pick your doctor wisely. Ask trusted friends and family members for recommendations.

Did you spend more than 15 minutes with your doctor? Tell me about your experience.

- Mama